You have to admit that it’s great being treated.
And when that treat comes in the form of a top-class dinner that requires no payment (from yours truly), well, that takes the cake.
For those of you that are saving a dinner outing for a special occasion – i.e. the bill is on your parents or someone else – then this list is for you.
From restaurants specialising in seafood, British and Italian cuisine to a steakhouse, there is something to suit all tastes.
Six by Nico
Are you looking to celebrate or explore new flavours from around the world? Then you’ll love the Six by Nico concept.
Founder Nico Simeone and his team pull inspiration from around the globe to discover the very best in international cuisine.
The menu changes every six weeks and provides you with a unique experience that will allow you to sample some of the world’s gastronomic wonders.
Address: 367 Union Street, Aberdeen AB11 6BT
Cafe Boheme
The food and drink offering at Cafe Boheme is sure to wow you (and your parents, of course). Deciding what dishes you’d like to tuck into will prove a challenge for all of you.
The restaurant delivers the perfect fusion of classic cuisine and the finest local produce.
It’s also based in the heart of the city, so is easy to reach and close to a range of other fantastic hospitality venues.
Address: 23 Windmill Brae, Aberdeen AB11 6HU
Moonfish Cafe
Established in 2004, Moonfish Cafe serves dishes that can only be described as works of art.
The restaurant offers a casual dining experience and a constantly changing, innovative menu of modern British cuisine.
While the food is made with local and seasonal produce and is undeniably mouth-watering, there is a beverage list to match which includes extensive gin and wine lists.
It is a must-try restaurant for dinner in Aberdeen.
Address: 9 Correction Wynd, Aberdeen AB10 1HP
Amarone
The atmosphere in Amarone is one of the best I have experienced whilst out dining in the city.
It is the perfect place for a catch-up with friends, a cocktail date, boozy brunch, or – in this case – an outing with your family.
If you want to make the most of the experience, I would highly recommend ordering the bruschetta. And, since your parents are paying the bill, there’s a prime Scottish fillet that has your name on it.
Address: 257-259 Union Street, Aberdeen AB11 6BR
Vovem Meat & Liquor
Many moons ago I sunk my teeth into a steak from Vovem, on Union Street. To this day, it is the best I have had. Fact.
The restaurant also stands out from the crowd as it presents a different approach to steakhouse dining – diners have the opportunity to enjoy a range of dishes in a single sitting.
There’s also a bar with an extensive line-up of drinks to choose from and a speakeasy located downstairs. I’ve already said too much…
Address: 254 Union Street, Aberdeen AB10 1TN
The Silver Darling
The Silver Darling has a great look, great food and great service. And let’s not forget it has a view to match.
The menu boasts everything from crab soup to haggis and black pudding bonbons to seafood linguine and honey and cider slow braised belly of pork.
If you’re looking to go all out, then this is definitely a venue to consider for dinner in Aberdeen.
Address: Pocra Quay, Aberdeen AB11 5DQ
The Esslemont Bar & Restaurant
“With a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere throughout, The Esslemont is the ideal place to enjoy guid Scottish scran and hospitality,” reads the restaurant’s website.
This is a statement I can confirm.
The Esslemont has been one of my favourite eateries to visit for dinner in Aberdeen since it launched several years ago.
Expect to be treated like royalty.
Address: 38 Union Street, Aberdeen AB10 1BD
Amuse by Kevin Dalgleish
Kevin Dalgleish, the former executive chef of Aberdeen’s The Chester Hotel, recently took ownership of No.1 Bar & Grill – which closed its doors earlier this year – to launch his new restaurant, Amuse by Kevin Dalgleish.
Yet to visit myself, I have heard fantastic reviews from those that have had the pleasure of stopping by.
The cuisine is modern Scottish with French notes, elegantly presented and packed full of natural flavours where the ingredients take centre stage.
Address: 1 Queen’s Terrace, Aberdeen AB10 1XL
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